If your car uses a laser cut key—or what’s often called a high security car key—you’ll need more than a hardware store to get a copy made. These keys are stronger, safer, and harder to duplicate. At ACME Locksmith, we cut and program laser cut car keys at all four of our Phoenix Metro shops.
Whether you need a spare or lost your only one, we’ve got the equipment and experience to get it done quickly and affordably.
What Is a Laser Cut or High Security Car Key?
A laser cut car key (also called a sidewinder key or high tech car key) has cuts that run down the middle or sides—not notches on the edge like older keys. These cuts are made with precision machines, and many of these keys also include chips that must be programmed to the vehicle.
That’s why they cost more than older keys—but they also offer better protection against theft.
Laser key cutting is a standard locksmith service. ACME Locksmith performs laser key cutting in all of our locations.
⚙️ Why These Keys Are Harder to Duplicate
To make high-security laser cut car keys, locksmiths use a milling machine that slowly shaves away metal from the key blank. The machine uses a small bit—similar to a drill bit—that moves up and down and side to side to remove just the right amount of material. Depending on the vehicle, the cuts are made along the top, bottom, or center of the key blade with exact precision. This process ensures the key works smoothly in both the door locks and the ignition.
💵 What Does a Laser Cut Car Key Cost?
Laser cut car key cost depends on the type of key and whether it needs to be programmed. Basic cuts start around $50, but smart keys or fobs can go over $200—still cheaper than a dealership. We wrote an entire article on Car Key Pricing.
If you’re in no rush, you can order a laser cut key online using your VIN, then come to us to have it cut and programmed. If you need it same-day, come in to one of our stores.
🗺️ 4 Valley Locations for High-Security Keys
We cut and program high security car keys at all four of our Phoenix Metro shops (Map):
Gilbert – 81 S McQueen Rd, Ste 102
Mesa – 4448 E Main St, STE 3
Phoenix – 4143 N 16th St, STE 3
Scottsdale – 7118 E Sahuaro Dr Ste A
Store locations in Mesa, Scottsdale, Gilbert, and Phoenix. Mobile service for Peoria, Gold Canyon. Chandler, Glendale, Tempe, Queen Creek, Ahwatukee, and Apache Junction.
📦 Not in the Phoenix Metro Area? Order Laser Keys by VIN
If you’re outside the Phoenix Metro area or just can’t make it into one of our shops, no problem—you can still order a laser cut car key directly from us using your vehicle’s VIN number.
We’ll cut the key to factory specs and ship it right to your door. If the key has a chip or remote built in, you’ll still need to program it—but that’s easier than most people think.
Some of our customers report good success using low-cost programmers available on ebay that work with their car’s year, make, and model. These plug into the car’s OBD port and walk you through the setup in just a few minutes. Just make sure the programmer you are purchasing, supports your vehicle.
Video: Laser Key Cutting
Map to Our Locations
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